The drive along Garth Road to this Western Albemarle property is replete with lovely pastoral vistas– a serene commute. A paved drive leads through secluded wooded surroundings to this modest colonial atop a forested ridge: the perfect degree of privacy for reclusive types. (For those who desire more exposure, the gently sloping front of the ridge could be selectively cleared.)

In the backyard, a 100-foot-long stone retaining wall, expansive brick patio, decks, and even a hot tub complement the original landscaping. Adding to the charm, a screened porch with beadboard wainscoting and defused lighting from two skylights in a rustic wood roof could be an outdoor living room with its freestanding tiled bar for entertaining or informal dining. Triple glass doors lead to the living room and adjoining dining room, insuring smooth flow for gatherings.

The floor plan is traditional colonial, with a brightly painted central entryway opening to the living room opposite a conventional family room. The formal dining room and kitchen with French doors complete the first floor. The family room has white wainscoting and built-in bookcases surrounding a whitewashed wood-burning fireplace. Refinished hardwood floors and a contemporary color palette tie all these rooms together. Crown molding, bronze light fixtures, and ceiling fans are also noteworthy upgrades.

Built at the time when kitchens were not the showplaces they are today, this area of the house is very compact. Recently renovated, it features a ceramic tile floor and a run of black granite countertops culminating in a curved bar surrounded by colorful stools. Original brick-red cabinets were retrofitted with cherry doors, and a small pantry was created to provide storage. Stainless appliances with black trim reinforce the modern theme. The room also contains a passageway to a two-car garage, stairs to the basement, and a half-bath tucked behind the hallway coat closet.

The three vibrant second-floor bedrooms include a modest master with en suite bathroom. But the wall colors are distracting, visually shrinking the scale of the rooms. Accents like the first floor's wainscoting and moldings are missing here, but walls can easily be painted and trim added to provide some continuity. Tasteful new light fixtures and mirrors now add zing in the bathrooms, but upgrading dated cabinetry, sinks, and tubs remains to be done.

Families with teenagers will appreciate the soundproofing in the walk-out basement studio. Of two rooms designed for professional recording, one is currently used as a bedroom; the second can house an aspiring drummer. A large laundry room on this level has roughed-in plumbing for a fourth bathroom.

Maintaining the exterior of the home has been made easier with renovations that include HardiePlank siding, gutters, an entry porch of ipê (a very dense wood that's naturally decay-resistant), and new Anderson Architect windows throughout.

The property in the Meriwether Lewis school district is an easy eight-mile drive from Emmet Street. The Whippoorwill Hollow subdivision is in a picturesque triangle, accessed by Owensville or Garth Roads. The current owners were drawn to this house sheltered in the woods and have enhanced its value by enfolding the surroundings into more living space— a space they hope will be appreciated by fellow nature lovers.~Each week a brave local seller invites the Hook in for a candid, warts-and-all review. Email to nominate yours now!